2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (66 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (133 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
